• Cheltenham Festival

Bobs Worth tops Gold Cup dozen

ESPN staff
March 9, 2013
Bos Worth was too strong for First Lieutentant in the Hennessy last year © Getty Images
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A maximum field of 12 will go to post for the Gold Cup at the Cheltenham Festival on Friday, with Bobs Worth heading a two-pronged assault from trainer Nicky Henderson.

Bobs Worth has not raced since winning the Hennessy Gold Cup last season, but he has impressed in his work and is vying for favouritism. He will be joined on the trip from Henderson's Lambourn yard by Long Run, who will be biding to regain the crown he won in 2011.

The Irish challenge is spearheaded by Willie Mullins' Sir Des Champs, a winner at the past two Festivals, and could be joined in the race by First Lieutentant and Bog Warrior who are both in the same ownership: Gigginstown Stud.

Paul Nicholls will go into the Gold Cup for the first time since 2006 without Kauto Star and the champion trainer relies on Silviniaco Conti.

The 2012 runner-up The Giant Bolster is engaged, as is Argento Chase winner Cape Tribulation.

Last year's winning connections, Jonjo O'Neill, JP McManus and AP McCoy are set to be represented by Sunnyhillboy.

Captain Chris, Monbeg Dude and Wayward Prince complete the field.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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